The Recipe for a Dangerous Dog

What makes a dog dangerous? Most of the time people think it’s the breed. But it’s actually the combination of three main ingredients: an unneutered male dog, a dog chained to a fence or other stationary object, and a dog with little contact with people. You don’t even need to mix and stir because this concoction will stew on it’s own.

The pit bull, who recently killed a 10-year-old girl in San Antonio, was kept on a short leash, had limited contact with family, and was clearly an intact male. He was the poster child for dangerous dogs, not because he was a pit bull, although it doesn’t help to treat an aggressive breed with such disdain, but because the owners created this dog by being irresponsible dog owners.

If you see a dog in this condition, living out its life alone, on a chain, and unneutered, don’t just feel sorry for it; report it to Animal Care Services. This dog, regardless of breed, can snap at any moment from the strain if its life.

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About the Author

Cathy M. Rosenthal has more than 25 years of experience in public relations, communications and humane education in the animal welfare field. She has worked for local humane societies and national humane groups, appearing on hundreds of television and radio news and public affairs programs to address animal issues. She currently is a consultant for local and national animal welfare organizations, writing grants, annual reports and other marketing materials. She is also the author of several children's books about animals.